Flats Diverted for Needy Groups

A Housing Ministry spokesman revealed last night that 1,500 flats earmarked for immigrants were diverted to other needy groups during the height of social unrest here last spring. The category of needy groups includes slum dwellers and young couples. But the Absorption Ministry has a reserve of 2,000 flats at its disposal in which to house immigrants, the spokesman said. Most of that housing is located in outlying areas of the country that are usually not the preferred choice of immigrants. In Tel Aviv and Jerusalem there are practically no apartments available for them, he said.